Production giant VIVA Films has reprimanded controversial director Darryl Yap over his social media activity, instructing him to direct his attention toward his debut horror film rather than online disputes involving government figures.
Yap disclosed the studio’s intervention in a social media update shortly before getting tangled in an online spat with Metropolitan Manila Development Authority (MMDA) General Manager Nicolas Torre III and Communications Undersecretary Claire Castro.
“Pinagalitan na ako ng VIVA FILMS, dapat daw nagpopokus ako sa first horror movie ko, wag na daw ako mag-Facebook. So ayun. Tama na muna!” Yap wrote.
Despite the warning from his studio, the director remained embroiled in controversy after criticizing Castro for her remarks concerning a recent shooting incident in Tacloban City, where she suggested that “some teachers” prompt students to act disrespectfully.
Yap, whose parents are both retired schoolteachers, took offense at the statement and directed profanity at the Palace press officer.
The situation escalated when Torre, a former police chief, stepped in to defend Castro by advising Yap to properly digest and comprehend the official’s full statement before reacting publicly.